Phillip Schofield Stands by Gino D’Acampo Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations and ITV Fallout
Phillip Schofield is reportedly standing by his friend and former This Morning colleague Gino D’Acampo, as sources claim both men feel they have been unfairly treated by ITV.
Gino, who strongly denies the allegations, has been accused of “distressing” and “sexually inappropriate” behavior following an ITV News investigation. More than 40 individuals have reportedly come forward, detailing experiences spanning over 12 years that were described as “unacceptable,” “distressing,” and “horrendous.”
One woman, referred to as Hannah to protect her identity, alleged that in 2011, Gino made vulgar comments toward her, saying he would “like to turn me over and f*** me up the a*** against the kitchen counter.” Another former colleague, who worked as a runner at the time, claimed that Gino once told him, “If you don’t get me a Cornetto, I will f*** your girlfriend.”
It is reported that many were afraid to speak out due to possible repercussions. However, with ITV pulling Gino’s shows, including Family Fortunes and Gino’s Italy: Secrets of the South, and former friends like Gordon Ramsay allegedly “throwing him under the bus,” Phillip Schofield is said to have stepped in as a source of support.
Beyond their professional relationship, their wives—Stephanie Lowe and Jessica Stellina Morrison—are also reportedly close. Phillip and Stephanie even attended Jessica’s 50th birthday celebration at Soho House last month.
A source told the Mail on Sunday:
“Phil and Gino always got on well. He was part of the This Morning family for a long time, so Phil has kept in contact with him. He is a very good listener. Phil knows what it’s like to lose a TV career, so he has been a strong source of support. Mental health is something Phil cares about deeply, and he wants to help where he can.”
The source further claimed that both men feel ITV treated them unfairly. Schofield reportedly believes that if his scandal had involved a younger woman instead of a man, he would have been treated differently by the broadcaster. Meanwhile, Gino allegedly argues that ITV encouraged his “laddy” and “flirty” persona before abruptly cutting ties with him.
“You can just imagine what they say about ITV in their private conversations,” the source added.
The Mirror has reached out to Phillip Schofield’s representatives for comment.
Gino D’Acampo Responds to Allegations
Gino has firmly denied all accusations against him, calling them “deeply upsetting.” In a statement, he expressed shock at the claims, stating:
“I have been told by ITN News that allegations have been made about me acting inappropriately, some dating back over ten years. I have never been made aware of these matters previously, and I firmly deny the allegations. I would never do anything that I thought would upset or distress anyone—this is simply not in my nature. I do not recognize the version of events being put to me.”
He continued:
“Not only have these allegations never been raised with me before, but I have also been repeatedly supported by top executives and commissioned for prime-time shows throughout the period in question. I am a father, a husband, and have worked with over 1,500 people across approximately 80 productions in my career—something I am incredibly proud of. I take such matters extremely seriously, and the suggestion that I have acted improperly is deeply upsetting.”
